Grizzled Skipper
Pyrgus malvae
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrgus_malvae
Overview
Pyrgus malvae, the grizzled skipper, is a butterfly species from the family Hesperiidae. It is a small skipper (butterfly) with a chequered pattern on its wings that appears to be black and white. This butterfly can be found throughout Europe and is common in central and southern regions of England.
The butterfly prefers three major types of habitat: woodland, grassland, and industrial. Referenced as a superspecies, Pyrgus malvae includes three semispecies: malvae, malvoides, and melotis. Eggs are laid on plants that will provide warmth and proper nutrition for development.
As larvae, their movement is usually restricted to a single plant, on which they will build tents, unless they move onto a second host plant. Larvae then spin cocoons, usually on the last host plant they have occupied,...
The Grizzled Skipper faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat loss and fragmentation from agricultural intensification and urban development. Changes in land management practices, particularly the loss of traditional grazing regimes and scrubland management, have eliminated crucial breeding habitats. Climate change is also emerging as a significant threat, altering the distribution and phenology of both the butterfly and its host plants.
Habitat
Pygrus malvae can be found throughout Western Europe in northern Scandinavia, parts of Greece, and some of the Mediterranean Islands.
Other threatened species in Hesperiidae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Grizzled Skipper classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Grizzled Skipper live?
What are the main threats to Grizzled Skipper?
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